Maintenance Crewmember Affected by COVID, Grounds Flights

It was a matter of time... but the US Air Force Thunderbird airshow performance at the upcoming July 22 Wings Over Warren Airshow has been cancelled after a Thunderbird crewmember was found to have been exposed to the COVID-19 infection and has tested positive.

As a result, the Thunderbirds have stood down for this event. Col. Brian L. Rico, commander of the 90th Maintenance Group at F.E. Warren Air Force Base, confirmed the news to local media. He commented that, "They did cancel. It’s extremely unfortunate, and we are very disappointed; however, the air show is not canceled... We still have an F-22 demo and an F-35 demo, so that will be a first for Cheyenne, those are the Air Force’s newest jets. It’s going to be phenomenal. …Even if they bring one, people will be amazed.”

The Thunderbirds posted a message to their Instagram page, noting, "For more than 65 years we have made it a point to perform in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Unfortunately, we will not be able to make it this year. We wish @fewarrenafb a safe and successful show. Stay safe, we cannot wait to see you all next year!"

The FE Warren appearance was one of only a handful that have been scheduled despite the effects of the pandemic and was greatly anticipated in Wyoming. In addition to other fighter displays, the show is expecting both B-1 and B-2 flight displays.

FMI: www.af.mil, http://afthunderbirds.com